SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Newborn Infants: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection of mothers may increase the risk of complications and adverse birth outcomes among newborn infants born more than 37 weeks' gestation.

Purpose: The aim of this scoping review is to identify the research gaps in the literature on SARS-CoV-2 positive newborn infants born at more than 37 weeks' gestation in United States (U.S.).

Data sources: A search for relevant articles was conducted using multiple resources including three databases CINAHL, Ovid MEDLINE, and Web of Science. This scoping review included case reports, case series, cohort, and retrospective studies focusing on newborn infants born more than 37 weeks of gestation with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Study selection: A total of 4262 citations were screened, and 12 articles met the eligibility criteria.

Data extraction: Two authors independently screened the articles using a multi-step approach.

Results: This review identified the gaps in literature on newborn infants up to one month of age. Few studies have focused on SARS-CoV-2 positive newborn infants born more than 37 gestational weeks. This review demonstrates a higher prevalence of community-acquired SARS-CoV-2 infections among infants following discharge.

Implications of practice and research: Few U.S. based studies have focused on newborn infants born more than 37 weeks' gestation with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Future follow-up studies are essential on these infants especially during the first 30 days of life. Discharge teaching on SARS-CoV-2 infection is vital in reducing community transmission, admissions, and emergency department visits.